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Dive into the wisdom of careful and considered speech with “CHRISTIANS—The Wise Person Pauses and Considers His Words.” This article explores the biblical mandate for wisdom in communication, examining Proverbs, Christ’s example, and modern-day applications. Learn how pausing to reflect on our words is not merely ethical but profoundly spiritual, fostering grace-filled connections and reflecting God’s heart.

Proverbs 12:16 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)
¹⁶A fool’s anger is known in a day,
but the prudent man covers shame.

A fool’s anger is known in a day: Fools (Heb. kesîl) hate knowledge as they lack good judgment. Their character is stupidity, rudeness, that is, one who completely lacks understanding, who is rebellious in his ways. (Prov. 1:22) The Foolishness: (Heb. ivveleth) of the foolish one, who has the trait of acting stupidly or rashly because he is devoid of wisdom or understanding, the Hebrew noun focusing on the evil behaviors which occur in this state. In his own eyes means that this fool thinks he is right, namely, his opinions, conduct, and behavior do not need to be corrected or improved. In a day is a phrase that means a very short period of time. Here it means at once.

but the prudent man covers shame: The prudent (Heb. arum) man is one who shows shrewdness, cleverness, craftiness, sensibility, wisdom, and good judgment in making his decisions. The prudent man can understand the ramification of what he says and does. His covering (Heb. kese) shame means that he ignores, disregards, or pays no attention to the shame (Heb. qalon), dishonor, or humiliation. In other words, he is not easily provoked and remains calm in the face of a personal attack, such as an insult, scorn, or slander.

At times we may be slighted or insulted in one way or another. What shall we do? Retaliate? Respond in kind? No, for we are not to repay evil for evil. (Rom. 12:17-21) The foolish man angrily responds to an insult to his honor very quickly. However, the prudent man pauses long enough for a short prayer and to consider the results of responding inappropriately. He takes the time to ponder God’s Word. Jesus’ words: “If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.” (Matthew 5:39) When he responds in such a way, he avoids escalating the tension and causing more contention that could end with more emotion or physical pain to himself or others. His failure to exercise self-control may also lead to the loss of his personal dignity.

When one overreacts to some personal affront and then acts rashly, he makes himself look foolish in the eyes of others. On the other hand, he wisely ignores confrontational remarks and actions by getting control over his tongue and holding back and irrational actions. He realizes that his honor is not worth what could result from a rash response. He lets time pass until the dishonor he felt has died down, as though it had never occurred. In doing this, he actually preserves his dignity and peace of mind. He has not allowed another to move him to resort to using disgraceful words.

The fact that the prudent man is shrewd, clever, and crafty does not mean that he is silently scheming his revenge. Rather, these qualities can apply in a good sense as well as a bad sense. Here, these qualities are used with knowledge and wisdom in the book of Proverbs.

Proverbs is linked with knowledge and wisdom, with a prudent person who thinks a matter through instead of reacting just from emotion. (Prov. 13:16; 14:8; 22:3) In the face of some unjust criticism or petty insult that seems to bring dishonor, the shrewd person restrains his tongue. He remains in control instead of letting the other person or the situation control him. And he certainly benefits from such prudence in that he thus avoids the fights that frequently come to the person who rashly responds when his feelings are hurt.

In a world filled with words, tweets, texts, and instant opinions, the biblical virtue of pausing and considering one’s words is a rare gem. The wise person, according to the Scriptures, not only values truth but also carefully weighs how and when to speak. This article will explore this biblical principle, its applications for Christians, and the wisdom behind pausing to reflect on our words.

I. The Wisdom of the Tongue in Scripture

A. The Tongue as a Powerful Tool

The Scriptures frequently comment on the power of the tongue. Proverbs 18:21 tells us, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits” (ESV). James describes the tongue as a small member that boasts of great things (James 3:5). These passages highlight the tongue’s potential to build or destroy.

B. Wisdom in Speech

Wisdom in speech is a recurring theme in the Book of Proverbs. “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (Proverbs 15:1, ESV). The wise person considers not only what to say but how to say it.

II. Pausing and Considering: A Sign of Wisdom

A. The Wise Hold Their Tongue

The wise are marked by restraint in speech. Proverbs 10:19 notes, “When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent” (ESV). Wisdom involves pausing and reflecting before speaking.

B. Consideration Leads to Understanding

By pausing to consider, we allow ourselves to listen, understand, and respond appropriately. Proverbs 18:2 warns against folly in speaking without understanding: “A fool takes no pleasure in understanding but only in expressing his opinion” (ESV).

III. Christ’s Example of Considered Speech

A. Jesus as Teacher

Jesus’ words were always intentional and purposeful. Whether teaching, rebuking, or encouraging, He demonstrated perfect wisdom in speech. Christ’s words were life-giving and insightful, never careless or hasty.

B. Jesus and His Critics

Even when faced with hostile critics, Jesus responded with wisdom. He often answered with a question or a parable, forcing His opponents to think more deeply about their assumptions (Matthew 22:15–22).

IV. Practical Applications for Christians Today

A. In Personal Relationships

Wisdom in speech fosters healthy relationships. A considered response promotes peace, understanding, and love.

B. In Social Media and Public Discourse

In an age of instant communication, the biblical principle of pausing and considering one’s words is highly applicable. Hastily typed words can lead to misunderstandings and unnecessary strife.

C. In Evangelism and Apologetics

Thoughtful and respectful dialogue is crucial in sharing the Gospel and defending the faith. The Apostle Peter exhorts believers to speak with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15).

V. The Challenge and Encouragement of Wise Speech

A. The Challenge

The challenge for Christians is to resist the cultural norm of instant reaction. Pausing to consider our words requires self-control, humility, and a focus on others’ well-being.

B. The Encouragement

The Bible provides encouragement in this area. The Spirit of God enables and helps us to bear the fruit of self-control (Galatians 5:22–23). The more we walk in step with the Spirit, the more we will reflect the wisdom of God in our speech.

VI. Conclusion: The Wise Person Pauses and Considers His Words

The wise person pauses and considers his words because they reflect the heart’s condition and have the power to impact others positively or negatively. The Bible’s consistent message is that words matter and that wisdom is found in thoughtfully considering what we say.

Christians are called to emulate Christ, the perfect example of wisdom in speech. In every aspect of life, from personal relationships to public discourse, the biblical principle of pausing to reflect before speaking offers a path to grace-filled communication.

May we, as followers of Christ, be known as those who speak words of wisdom, grace, and love. May we pause, consider, and choose our words with care, recognizing their power and potential. May we be people who reflect the wisdom and heart of God, using our words to build up, encourage, and bless.

About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).